Lead Sydney's Premier Harbour Cruise Experience
An exceptional opportunity exists for a seasoned and ambitious hospitality leader to join our client, the operator of Sydney's iconic Sydney Showboats, Magistic Cruises, and Clearview Glass Boat Cruises. For over 38 years, we have been a leader in Sydney's tourism and leisure landscape, delivering unforgettable experiences on the world's most beautiful harbour.
The Opportunity
Reporting directly to the Chairman and Owner, you will have autonomous leadership over the company's entire cruise operations. In this pivotal role, you will guide four dedicated department heads (Marine Operations, Cruise Operations, Executive Chef, and dotted line to Fleet Engineer). As a key member of the senior leadership team, you will also collaborate closely with the General Manager of Sales and the Head of Finance to drive profitability, champion service excellence, and shape the company's strategic growth.
Your primary mission is to elevate our guest experience, enhance our food and beverage offerings, drive profitability, and lead our service teams to deliver five-star harbour experiences.
What You'll Do: Key Responsibilities
* Operational & Hospitality Excellence: Oversee all hospitality and marine operations across our fleet of three unique vessels, with a sharp focus on P&L management and F&B excellence.
* Drive Profitability: Take ownership of the operational budget with a cost management mindset. Proactively manage all associated costs of operational labour costs, food & beverage costs with smart purchasing, and other operational costs.
* Maximise Revenue: Implement strategic initiatives to maximise on-board revenue and overall contribution margins.
* Lead & Inspire: Build, mentor, and foster a high-performing, outcome-driven culture across the front-of-house, kitchen, and marine crews. Oversee all employee management, including training, rostering, and performance evaluations.
* Champion the Guest Experience: Champion a five-star service culture that exceeds expectations. Ensure meticulous attention to detail in service standards, event delivery protocols.
* Ensure Compliance & Safety: Conduct regular audits to guarantee unwavering compliance with all regulatory standards, including liquor licensing, food safety regulations, and marine law. Oversee vessel preservation and maintenance programs within budget.
* Strategic Growth: Collaborate with the leadership team on business strategy, technology optimisation, and future expansion opportunities. Re-define and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to drive efficiency and quality.
What You Need: The Ideal Candidate
* Essential Experience: A non-negotiable minimum of 10+ years of progressive senior leadership experience in a high-volume, quality-focused hospitality operation (e.g., large restaurant groups, 5-star hotels, premium event venues).
* Proven Financial Acumen: You are financially astute, know how to read and influence a $P&L$, and have a clear track record of improving profitability through effective cost control and revenue generation.
* Inspirational Leadership: You build exceptional teams and create a positive, accountable, and results-driven culture.
* Guest-Obsessed: You have a meticulous eye for detail, an uncompromised commitment to quality, and a genuine passion for creating memorable guest experiences.
* Hands-On Attitude: You are a strategic leader who is present and active in the operation, ready to lead from the front.
* Essential Status: Must be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident.